Nepal announced on August 11, 2025, that it would waive climbing permit fees for 97 previously restricted peaks in the remote northwestern regions of the country. This initiative is part of a two-year plan to promote tourism in underdeveloped areas, specifically the Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces. The 97 peaks, ranging in elevation from 5,870 to 7,132 meters, are located in some of Nepal’s most remote regions. Despite their breathtaking beauty, these areas have seen limited tourist activity due to challenging access and a lack of infrastructure. The government’s decision to waive climbing fees is expected to stimulate tourism, create employment opportunities, and generate income for local communities.
Himal Gautam, Director at Nepal’s Department of Tourism, emphasized that the initiative is designed to promote Nepal’s unexplored mountain destinations. He stated, “The aim is to bring more visitors to remote regions, create jobs, and generate income for local communities.” This move aligns with Nepal’s broader strategy to diversify its tourism offerings and reduce the pressure on popular trekking routes like Everest and Annapurna.
In conjunction with this policy, Nepal has also proposed a new regulation requiring climbers to have previously scaled at least one 7,000-meter peak before attempting to summit Mount Everest. This measure aims to enhance safety and ensure that climbers possess the necessary experience to tackle the challenges posed by the world’s highest peak. The proposal is currently under review by the Upper House of Nepal’s Parliament and is expected to be enacted in the near future.
The government’s decision to waive climbing fees for these 97 peaks comes at a time when Nepal is experiencing a surge in tourism. However, the increased number of visitors has led to concerns about overcrowding and environmental degradation in popular trekking areas. By promoting lesser-known regions, Nepal aims to distribute tourist traffic more evenly across the country and mitigate the negative impacts associated with mass tourism.
While the waiver of climbing fees is a step towards promoting sustainable tourism, experts caution that it is only one part of the equation. Infrastructure development, including improved transportation and accommodation facilities, will be crucial to making these remote regions more accessible and attractive to climbers. Additionally, measures to ensure environmental conservation and the well-being of local communities must accompany the promotion of these areas to achieve long-term success.
As Nepal continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by its growing tourism industry, the opening of these 97 peaks represents a strategic effort to balance economic development with environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. The coming years will reveal the effectiveness of this approach and its impact on the future of Nepal’s tourism sector.
